The Renewable Fuels Association is praising President Donald Trump's renewed push for Congress to permanently authorize year-round sales of E15 gasoline nationwide.
In a supplemental funding request sent to Congress, the Trump administration called on lawmakers to codify year-round E15 sales, describing the change as an urgent priority that would increase consumer fuel choices, strengthen domestic energy production and provide greater flexibility in the nation's fuel supply.
Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper welcomed the administration's proposal.
"President Trump has clearly and consistently supported the year-round availability of E15," Cooper said. "He recognizes that E15 helps Americans save money with each fill-up while also strengthening the farm economy and bolstering U.S. energy security."
E15 is a gasoline blend containing 15% ethanol, compared with the more common E10 blend, which contains 10% ethanol.
According to the Renewable Fuels Association, E15 has typically sold for 10 to 40 cents less per gallon than regular gasoline, with average savings of about 25 cents per gallon in recent years. The organization says making year-round E15 sales permanent would provide motorists with a lower-cost fuel option while creating additional demand for corn-based ethanol produced by American farmers.
The ethanol industry has long sought permanent authorization for year-round E15 sales, arguing the policy would eliminate seasonal restrictions that can limit availability during the summer driving season. Supporters also contend expanded E15 use would benefit rural economies by increasing demand for U.S.-grown corn while reducing reliance on imported petroleum.
If approved by Congress, the change would establish permanent nationwide access to E15 throughout the year, ending the need for temporary waivers that have allowed summer sales in recent years.